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Dangerous Dogs
are a Growing Threat
Attention all dog owners: Camden County is
changing its regulations regarding dangerous dogs. The change is in
response to a new Georgia law, "Mercedes Law," that is named after a
girl who has undergone more than a dozen reconstructive surgeries after
being attacked by a vicious dog.
And if you think your dog doesn't qualify as dangerous, you may need to
think again: any dog can be provoked to bite, but there are certain
situations you'd be well advised to avoid.
Here are a few things to keep in mind:
· It does not matter what breed of dog you have; any animal can be
provoked to bite.
· Dogs can get aggressive defending just about anything: territory,
people, puppies, food or possessions.
· How your dogs acts, even when you are not around, is your
responsibility.
· Letting your dog roam is dangerous on many
levels: it could be hit by a vehicle, be dognapped or worse still, bite
or otherwise attack an unwitting passerby.
· Dogs that are chained tend to be more anxious and can be easily
agitated into biting.
Training your dog is vital. Every dog can be trained to be a sweet,
non-aggressive pet that would not harm a fly, but it takes work. It is
never too late to train a dog, either. No matter your pet's age, it can
learn new tricks, including how to react calmly to strangers. Think it
is not possible? Talk to a qualified dog trainer and you will be amazed
what can happen with a little bit of hard work. The rewards - for both
you and your pet - will be without measure.
A few things to keep in mind should you come across an aggressive dog;
teach them to your children and keep them at the back of your mind:
· Do not run.
· Do not scream.
· Do not turn your back on the animal.
· Walk away slowly and get into the nearest building or vehicle.
· If attacked, use whatever you have for defense, backpack, bicycle,
shoes, whatever you can give the dog to bite that isn't part of you.
· If the attack is serious, call 9-1-1.
The new law makes it easier for dogs to be defined as dangerous or
vicious and for owners to be sanctioned for failing to properly control
or contain their pet.
For further information still, call Camden County Animal Control at
576-7395.
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